Quacy L Smith

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Quacy Smith completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Smith's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading-bio-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tQuacy Smith has been a proven leader and servant in the community. Throughout his life of service as a United States Marine, police officer, federal investigator, and in his church community, he has selflessly served the needs and interests of others. As an attorney and public speaker, he is a poised presenter and negotiator who can get things done in Washington, DC. Quacy Smith is a better choice for Arizona.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading-key-message-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>A Better Choice! Arizona's 9th Congressional District has not been well served in recent years; in fact, there has been a severe lack of representation in regards to the will of the people. The current officeholder holds extreme MAGA views that are not in touch with the majority of voters of the 9th District. It is time for a change - the voters deserve better. They deserve a representative who will head to Washington to represent their concerns and fight for their interests. There is no more time to waste for the residents of CD9 to have effective representation. There are far too many important issues to address in the lives of everyday Arizonans - access to healthcare, affordable housing, water concerns, and so many more.</li><li>In light of the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling banning access to safe and legal abortion, it is crucial that we energize the voters of the 9th District, and across the state, to vote on the upcoming AAA ballot measure in November. The women of Arizona must be able to make decisions regarding their healthcare and reproductive care needs. These decisions should be made between women and their healthcare providers. No government entity or politician should have a say in these private matters. It is essential that we, as Arizonans, mobilize to ensure that this right is restored in this upcoming general election. For Arizona women, and those that love them, we need to ensure that protections are back in place to seek safe abortion care.</li><li>Given that the 9th Congressional District of AZ is home to one of the fastest growing areas in the Nation, is it imperative that we address concerns regarding population growth, housing availability and affordability, and the supporting infrastructure. Development is exploding in the West Valley, and while economic development is welcomed, the residents of the area have serious concerns about quality of life issues. Water scarcity is an issue that is brought up often by residents, in regards to the usage by businesses and agricultural operations. These issues need to be addressed by partners at all levels, both in state and in Washington, DC.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading1-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe public policy areas that Quacy is passionate about are those that are of most concern to the voters of this District. At the end of the day, this is not about what Quacy is passionate about. He aims to serve as a conduit for the voters of the District, at the Federal level. The issues that have been most often brought up on the campaign trail are the following: access to quality, affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas; affordable housing in urban areas; access for women to reproductive care across the state; water scarcity; quality K-12 education; and gun rights vs. gun control. There are many more that could be listed here, but these are the issues that have consistently been raised in discussions across the District.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading2-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThere are several elements of political philosophy that I find fascinating. One can refer to the theory of a social contract - responsibility, sharing, and shared responsibility - to find the basis of my own political philosophy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading3-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAn elected official must understand the function that he/she/they are primarily there to serve - to represent the will of the people. Full stop. It appears in the current session of Congress, and frankly, in the last several years in this country, this duty has been put aside by politicians, for self-aggrandizement or personal gain. It is no coincidence that the current polling in terms of the confidence that Americans have in the US Congress is at an all-time low. There needs to be a return to the reason they were put in office, in the first place. I never envisioned myself running for elected office. I have served my country and my community in the US Military, as a police officer, as a pastor in my church, and as an attorney, serving my clients. A former law school professor appealed to me to consider running for office, as she recognized in me a heart to serve, and felt that I possessed qualities that would be right for the times we are living in, especially for the 9th District.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading4-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI love to serve people! I love hearing their stories, finding out what makes them tick, listening to their concerns and offering assistance where I am able. I am passionate about preserving our democracy, and doing my part to uphold ideals that are uniquely American. Similar to the process of investigation, research and preparation for my clients' legal cases, I am very thorough and intend to work very hard on behalf of my constituents as an officeholder.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading5-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy legacy will be my 8 children, my service to my country, my community and my church, and the countless people I have been able to help with pro bono legal services. I trust that I will be able to help many more people across Arizona with my foray into public service.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading6-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWhile it can be beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics, I do not believe that it is absolutely necessary. AS for myself, having been in the US Military, in law enforcement and in the legal profession as an attorney, I bring a set of experiences to the table that will inform my performance as an elected official. Whereas there are a great number of politicians who have been in the profession for many years, with a questionable level of productivity, it is important to have a fresh set of eyes to tackle issues on behalf of the people, and get things accomplished.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading7-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe United States will face a number of great challenges over the next decade. First and foremost, if former President Donald Trump is re-elected, we may run the risk of not recognizing our country as we know it today. Our very idea of democracy may falter with a Presidential candidate who has stated that he will be a dictator on day one. We ought to take him at his word.<br/><br/>\n<p>Should President Biden be re-elected, we will have a number of challenges to grapple with, including:<br/><br/>\r\n-Comprehensive Immigration Reform:<br/>\r\nThere is no question that the United States needs to deal with the issues at our Southern Border. We also need to overhaul our immigration system to reward those who go through the process legally. This will take Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike to come together, to enact meaningful reform. It is shameful that the recent efforts to pass a comprehensive package in Congress was thwarted for political expediency. This should most certainly be one of the priorities of the next session of Congress.<br/><br/>\r\n-Access to/Cost of Quality Healthcare:<br/>\r\nWith the flight of medical professionals from many corners of the country, particularly in rural areas, there will be a continuation of issues in regards to access to quality care at an affordable cost.<br/><br/>\r\n-Climate Change:<br/>\r\nIt will be imperative to continue to educate the public, and keep corporate partners accountable, in regards to mitigating climate change. Our global temperatures are hitting records monthly, and this is an area that needs more attention and focus so that we can preserve our way of life and our environment, particularly here in Arizona.<br/><br/>\r\n-Affordable Housing:<br/>\n</p>\nIncreasingly, our cities are becoming less and less affordable, particularly when it comes to housing. We need to ensure that folks can live in proximity to where they work and spend family time. The corporatization of home ownership is definitely an issue that needs to be addressed, to keep neighborhoods accessible to everyday people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading8-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI amin favor of term limits - one has only to observe the median age in office in the US Congress currently, to make a determination that some officeholders have been there for too long. Now, to be clear, this is less an argument of age than of capacity. If a person is capable of doing a job, the people should be able to elect an officeholder as long as they are delivering for the people. However, this is also a question of allowing a younger crop of elected officials to be ushered in and represent the will of a new generation of voters. Term limits are necessary to have fresh ideas, new ways of looking at issues and coming to solutions in any governmental body. As far as the actual determination of what the term limit should be, this is yet another issue that should be decided on by the people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading9-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have great admiration for the late Sen. John McCain. He was an American hero, a great Arizonan who was a leader of his party but also stood on principle. He was not afraid to stand alone and split with his party when necessary. This country needs more leaders like Sen. McCain. While we belong to different political parties, we are both Americans first. I would not hesitate to model myself after Sen. McCain while serving in Congress.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading10-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThere are truly so many! In recent times on the campaign trail, I have heard many stories about veterans who are experiencing tremendous wait times in accessing the specialized healthcare that they require. One particular veteran in Mohave County recounted his story at a recent town hall, whereas he is considering filing for bankruptcy with the weight of the financial burden he is facing, and does not want his wife or members of his family to be affected by this. Veterans' concerns always touch me, since anyone who served this country should not have to struggle, particularly with their healthcare.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading11-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAbsolutely! There is no question in my mind that an elected representative should be prepared to come to the table with a set of policy initiatives that are important to their constituents, then find the path to get said initiatives passed within the full body. Particularly, in the current political climate, where a majority can be razor thin, there is going to be the need to compromise with fellow lawmakers to get things done.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-192172-2024-04-10\" id=\"heading12-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-192172-2024-04-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-192172-2024-04-10\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-192172-2024-04-10\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tDavid Lucier, Nick Blair, Brandon Donnelly - all former opponents in this CD9 race.<br/><br/>\n<p>State Rep. Marcelino Quiñonez, LD11<br/><br/>\n</p>\nMore to be announced, once my name is officially on the ballot.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nQuacy Smith completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Smith's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Quacy Smith has been a proven leader and servant in the community. Throughout his life of service as a United States Marine, police officer, federal investigator, and in his church community, he has selflessly served the needs and interests of others. As an attorney and public speaker, he is a poised presenter and negotiator who can get things done in Washington, DC. Quacy Smith is a better choice for Arizona. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? A Better Choice! Arizona's 9th Congressional District has not been well served in recent years; in fact, there has been a severe lack of representation in regards to the will of the people. The current officeholder holds extreme MAGA views that are not in touch with the majority of voters of the 9th District. It is time for a change - the voters deserve better. They deserve a representative who will head to Washington to represent their concerns and fight for their interests. There is no more time to waste for the residents of CD9 to have effective representation. There are far too many important issues to address in the lives of everyday Arizonans - access to healthcare, affordable housing, water concerns, and so many more. In light of the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling banning access to safe and legal abortion, it is crucial that we energize the voters of the 9th District, and across the state, to vote on the upcoming AAA ballot measure in November. The women of Arizona must be able to make decisions regarding their healthcare and reproductive care needs. These decisions should be made between women and their healthcare providers. No government entity or politician should have a say in these private matters. It is essential that we, as Arizonans, mobilize to ensure that this right is restored in this upcoming general election. For Arizona women, and those that love them, we need to ensure that protections are back in place to seek safe abortion care. Given that the 9th Congressional District of AZ is home to one of the fastest growing areas in the Nation, is it imperative that we address concerns regarding population growth, housing availability and affordability, and the supporting infrastructure. Development is exploding in the West Valley, and while economic development is welcomed, the residents of the area have serious concerns about quality of life issues. Water scarcity is an issue that is brought up often by residents, in regards to the usage by businesses and agricultural operations. These issues need to be addressed by partners at all levels, both in state and in Washington, DC. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? The public policy areas that Quacy is passionate about are those that are of most concern to the voters of this District. At the end of the day, this is not about what Quacy is passionate about. He aims to serve as a conduit for the voters of the District, at the Federal level. The issues that have been most often brought up on the campaign trail are the following: access to quality, affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas; affordable housing in urban areas; access for women to reproductive care across the state; water scarcity; quality K-12 education; and gun rights vs. gun control. There are many more that could be listed here, but these are the issues that have consistently been raised in discussions across the District. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? There are several elements of political philosophy that I find fascinating. One can refer to the theory of a social contract - responsibility, sharing, and shared responsibility - to find the basis of my own political philosophy. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? An elected official must understand the function that he/she/they are primarily there to serve - to represent the will of the people. Full stop. It appears in the current session of Congress, and frankly, in the last several years in this country, this duty has been put aside by politicians, for self-aggrandizement or personal gain. It is no coincidence that the current polling in terms of the confidence that Americans have in the US Congress is at an all-time low. There needs to be a return to the reason they were put in office, in the first place. I never envisioned myself running for elected office. I have served my country and my community in the US Military, as a police officer, as a pastor in my church, and as an attorney, serving my clients. A former law school professor appealed to me to consider running for office, as she recognized in me a heart to serve, and felt that I possessed qualities that would be right for the times we are living in, especially for the 9th District. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I love to serve people! I love hearing their stories, finding out what makes them tick, listening to their concerns and offering assistance where I am able. I am passionate about preserving our democracy, and doing my part to uphold ideals that are uniquely American. Similar to the process of investigation, research and preparation for my clients' legal cases, I am very thorough and intend to work very hard on behalf of my constituents as an officeholder. What legacy would you like to leave? My legacy will be my 8 children, my service to my country, my community and my church, and the countless people I have been able to help with pro bono legal services. I trust that I will be able to help many more people across Arizona with my foray into public service. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? While it can be beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics, I do not believe that it is absolutely necessary. AS for myself, having been in the US Military, in law enforcement and in the legal profession as an attorney, I bring a set of experiences to the table that will inform my performance as an elected official. Whereas there are a great number of politicians who have been in the profession for many years, with a questionable level of productivity, it is important to have a fresh set of eyes to tackle issues on behalf of the people, and get things accomplished. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? The United States will face a number of great challenges over the next decade. First and foremost, if former President Donald Trump is re-elected, we may run the risk of not recognizing our country as we know it today. Our very idea of democracy may falter with a Presidential candidate who has stated that he will be a dictator on day one. We ought to take him at his word. Should President Biden be re-elected, we will have a number of challenges to grapple with, including: -Comprehensive Immigration Reform: There is no question that the United States needs to deal with the issues at our Southern Border. We also need to overhaul our immigration system to reward those who go through the process legally. This will take Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike to come together, to enact meaningful reform. It is shameful that the recent efforts to pass a comprehensive package in Congress was thwarted for political expediency. This should most certainly be one of the priorities of the next session of Congress. -Access to/Cost of Quality Healthcare: With the flight of medical professionals from many corners of the country, particularly in rural areas, there will be a continuation of issues in regards to access to quality care at an affordable cost. -Climate Change: It will be imperative to continue to educate the public, and keep corporate partners accountable, in regards to mitigating climate change. Our global temperatures are hitting records monthly, and this is an area that needs more attention and focus so that we can preserve our way of life and our environment, particularly here in Arizona. -Affordable Housing: Increasingly, our cities are becoming less and less affordable, particularly when it comes to housing. We need to ensure that folks can live in proximity to where they work and spend family time. The corporatization of home ownership is definitely an issue that needs to be addressed, to keep neighborhoods accessible to everyday people. What are your thoughts on term limits? I amin favor of term limits - one has only to observe the median age in office in the US Congress currently, to make a determination that some officeholders have been there for too long. Now, to be clear, this is less an argument of age than of capacity. If a person is capable of doing a job, the people should be able to elect an officeholder as long as they are delivering for the people. However, this is also a question of allowing a younger crop of elected officials to be ushered in and represent the will of a new generation of voters. Term limits are necessary to have fresh ideas, new ways of looking at issues and coming to solutions in any governmental body. As far as the actual determination of what the term limit should be, this is yet another issue that should be decided on by the people. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? I have great admiration for the late Sen. John McCain. He was an American hero, a great Arizonan who was a leader of his party but also stood on principle. He was not afraid to stand alone and split with his party when necessary. This country needs more leaders like Sen. McCain. While we belong to different political parties, we are both Americans first. I would not hesitate to model myself after Sen. McCain while serving in Congress. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? There are truly so many! In recent times on the campaign trail, I have heard many stories about veterans who are experiencing tremendous wait times in accessing the specialized healthcare that they require. One particular veteran in Mohave County recounted his story at a recent town hall, whereas he is considering filing for bankruptcy with the weight of the financial burden he is facing, and does not want his wife or members of his family to be affected by this. Veterans' concerns always touch me, since anyone who served this country should not have to struggle, particularly with their healthcare. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Absolutely! There is no question in my mind that an elected representative should be prepared to come to the table with a set of policy initiatives that are important to their constituents, then find the path to get said initiatives passed within the full body. Particularly, in the current political climate, where a majority can be razor thin, there is going to be the need to compromise with fellow lawmakers to get things done. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? David Lucier, Nick Blair, Brandon Donnelly - all former opponents in this CD9 race. State Rep. Marcelino Quiñonez, LD11 More to be announced, once my name is officially on the ballot.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Smith’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p><b><big><big><big>Position on the Issues</big></big></big></b>\n</p><p><b><big>Effective and Actionable</big></b>\n</p><p><b>Quacy’s priorities for his campaign touch upon issues that affect voters in his region.</b><br/>\n<b>Listed are the key priorities that he champions for voters.</b><br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>VOTING RIGHTS</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s stance on voting rights is deeply rooted in the principles of democracy and fair representation. He is committed to ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to vote and that their vote matters. His policies aim to expand access to voting and advocate for reasonable voter ID laws, both of which are critical to ensuring that all citizens can participate in the democratic process.\n</p><p>Quacy is also dedicated to protecting against voter suppression and restoring voting rights for former felons, issues that have been at the forefront of recent debates on voting rights. Furthermore, he encourages participation among underrepresented groups and ensures election security. Quacy holds a strong commitment to upholding the integrity of our electoral process and ensuring that the voices of all people are heard.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>WOMEN’S RIGHTS</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy strongly believes in the pursuit of Women’s Rights as a fundamental part of creating a more perfect union and a better future. This belief is rooted in the conviction that we can and should do better in supporting gender equality. Quacy advocates for equal opportunities for women in all spheres, including the workplace, education, and politics, which are key areas that directly impact women’s lives and their ability to contribute to society.\n</p><p>Another important aspect of Quacy’s stance is the promotion of work-life balance. This is a critical issue for many women who juggle multiple roles in their personal and professional lives. By advocating for policies that support work-life balance, Quacy aims to create an environment where women can thrive both at work and at home.\n</p><p>Quacy is a staunch supporter of reproductive rights, firmly believing that women should have the right to make decisions about their own reproductive health. In addition, Quacy is committed to combating gender-based violence and promoting the representation of women in leadership roles and political forums. These efforts are aimed at empowering women and providing them with the opportunities they need to succeed.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy is a strong advocate for women’s reproductive rights, believing in a woman’s right to make decisions about her own reproductive health. He supports legislation that establishes a woman’s right to choose a reasonable framework of regulations to ensure safe and responsible procedures. Quacy also emphasizes the importance of preventing unintended pregnancies through increased access to contraception and comprehensive sex education.\n</p><p>He opposes extreme measures on both sides of the reproductive rights debate. He rejects overly restrictive bans and laws, but also opposes efforts to expand rights without any reasonable limitations. He believes that reproductive rights legislation must thoughtfully balance a woman’s fundamental right to privacy and the prevailing public interest.\n</p><p>He seeks common ground between pro-choice and pro-life advocates by promoting policies that aim to reduce the overall number of abortions while respecting women’s autonomy. This includes supporting adoption programs and providing increased support for pregnant women. He also supports initiatives aimed at making reproductive healthcare, including contraception and family planning services, affordable and accessible.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>HEALTHCARE</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s position on healthcare is rooted in the belief that it is an essential component of a functioning democracy and that the government has a great responsibility to provide for the well-being of its citizens. He supports policies aimed at expanding access to healthcare, improving its affordability, and addressing health disparities. Quacy believes in improving and building upon the current system, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), rather than advocating for a complete overhaul. He supports policies that introduce incremental reforms that address specific issues without disrupting the entire system.\n</p><p>He advocates for moving toward a system of universal healthcare coverage, where all Americans have access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare. He supports the inclusion of a public option as part of healthcare reform to increase competition, lower costs, and provide additional choices for consumers. He also supports policies that involve collaboration between the public and private sectors, including initiatives that encourage public-private partnerships to improve healthcare delivery, infrastructure, and/or research.\n</p><p>He understands that a hybrid model will favor market-based approaches to healthcare reform. This might include promoting competition among private insurers, encouraging innovation, and implementing policies that aim to increase transparency and reduce costs within the healthcare marketplace. However, he will not support Market-Based solutions that are detrimental to citizens. He will emphasize the need to address high prescription drug prices and supports expanding Medicaid. Lastly, Quacy will pass and support legislation that emphasizes the importance of preventive care and public health initiatives to reduce overall healthcare costs and improve population health outcomes.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>BORDER SECURITY/IMMIGRATION REFORM</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy firmly supports the securing of the borders immediately to prevent illegal entry. He supports comprehensive immigration reform, including enhanced border security without racially charged rhetoric, and creating realistic pathways to legal status for undocumented immigrants.\n</p><p>He emphasizes a humane approach to immigration, supporting measures to improve conditions for asylum-seekers. His immigration reform considers the country’s economic and labor market needs, evaluating visa programs to meet labor demands.\n</p><p>He promotes immigrant integration into society, supporting language programs and cultural assimilation initiatives. He calls for bipartisan collaboration for meaningful immigration reform, upholds the rule of law, and advocates for increased support for border states and cities impacted by current immigration policies.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>SOCIAL SECURITY/ RETIREMENT PROTECTION</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy is committed to protecting and strengthening Social Security, emphasizing the importance of retirement protection. He advocates for sustainable funding to ensure the program’s long-term solvency and rejects any reductions in benefits. Quacy supports expanding Social Security benefits, particularly for vulnerable populations such as low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities.\n</p><p>He opposes efforts to privatize Social Security, believing it could expose retirees to market risks. He emphasizes the importance of protecting Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and opposes proposals that involve cutting Social Security benefits. Quacy supports policies promoting retirement security, including initiatives encouraging retirement savings and workplace pension plans.\n</p><p>He champions the protection of traditional pension plans, promotion of retirement savings, and expansion of access to retirement savings vehicles. He addresses income inequality, supports policies for long-term care challenges, and advocates for financial regulations and consumer protection measures to safeguard retirees from financial exploitation and fraud.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>SECOND AMENDMENT POLICIES AND PROTECTIONS</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s stance on Second Amendment protections and gun reform balances the right to bear arms with common-sense measures to enhance public safety. He fully recognizes the Second Amendment as a constitutional right that should not be disturbed. However, he recognizes the importance of public safety and the challenges to policing due to the lack of reasonable gun reform. Accordingly, Quacy does support comprehensive, enforceable background checks for all gun sales, including private sales and online purchases.\n</p><p>He advocates for closing loopholes in gun sales at shows and online marketplaces. He supports the development of red flag laws, allowing temporary firearm removal from individuals posing a danger due to mental health issues or other factors. He emphasizes the need to better enforce existing gun laws.\n</p><p>He promotes responsible gun ownership through education and training, and supports, in some instances, mandatory firearm safety courses for gun owners. He advocates for increased funding for research on gun violence and urges bipartisan solutions to address gun violence, aiming to unite lawmakers from different political perspectives.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s approach to criminal justice reform seeks a harmony between maintaining a fair and effective system and addressing issues of over incarceration and systemic bias. He supports sentencing reform, focusing on fair, proportionate laws and reducing mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent offenses. Quacy also advocates for rehabilitation and reentry programs, providing access to education, job training, and mental health services to reduce reoffending.\n</p><p>He supports measures to enhance police accountability and transparency, such as body-worn cameras, independent oversight, and improved de-escalation training. He endorses community policing models that build positive relationships between law enforcement and communities. Quacy also believes in bail reform, supporting enhanced risk assessments and reforms to prevent pretrial detention due to inability to pay bail.\n</p><p>His reform efforts include juvenile justice reform, emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures for young offenders. He supports drug policy reform, including decriminalization or legalization of certain substances and a public health approach to substance abuse. Quacy advocates for evidence-based, data-driven policies to identify effective strategies for reducing crime and improving rehabilitation outcomes.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>TAXES</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s tax policies aim to balance the funding needs of the government while promoting economic growth, fairness, and fiscal responsibility. He supports a progressive tax system where higher-income individuals pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes. He advocates for measures that provide tax relief to the middle class, such as tax credits and deductions.\n</p><p>He supports a balanced approach to corporate taxation, promoting measures to ensure international competitiveness and stimulate economic growth. He endorses efforts to close tax loopholes and eliminate inefficient or regressive tax provisions. He also supports targeted tax incentives to encourage investment in areas that promote economic growth.\n</p><p>He emphasizes the importance of a simple and transparent tax system and recognizes the necessity of generating sufficient revenue to fund government programs and services. He supports reasonable reforms to the estate tax and recognizes the importance of tax policies that can adapt to economic conditions.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>SMALL BUSINESSES</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s positions on small businesses aim to create a supportive environment for entrepreneurship and economic growth. He supports policies that improve access to capital for small businesses, such as low-interest loans, grants, or partnerships with financial institutions. Quacy advocates for a balanced regulatory environment that protects consumers and workers while avoiding unnecessary burdens on small businesses. He endorses tax policies that provide relief for small businesses, including tax credits and deductions.\n</p><p>He recognizes the challenges small businesses face in providing healthcare benefits to employees and supports measures to address healthcare costs. He supports initiatives that help small businesses attract and retain talented employees, involving investments in education and workforce development. Quacy recognizes the importance of digital infrastructure for the success of small businesses and supports policies that expand access to broadband and technology resources.\n</p><p>He advocates for policies that make it easier for small businesses to participate in government procurement opportunities. He supports training and support programs for small business owners, including initiatives that provide mentorship and guidance on business management. Quacy encourages small businesses to adopt environmentally and socially responsible practices and supports policies that encourage collaboration between small and large businesses.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES &amp; SUSTAINABILITY</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s environmental sustainability policies involve an approach that values environmental protection, economic considerations, and practical solutions. He supports policies that balance environmental protection with economic growth, endorses market-based approaches to environmental challenges, and advocates for investment in green technologies.\n</p><p>He emphasizes international collaboration to address global environmental challenges and advocates for well-crafted regulations to address environmental concerns. He supports efforts to conserve and preserve natural habitats and biodiversity, and recognizes the importance of resilience and adaptation to the impacts of climate change.\n</p><p>He values public-private partnerships to address environmental challenges and stresses the importance of engaging local communities in environmental initiatives. He supports a gradual and realistic transition to cleaner energy sources, recognizing the role of traditional energy sources in the short term while investing in renewable and low-carbon energy alternatives.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p><p><b>ECONOMY &amp; ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY</b><br/><br/>\n</p><p>Quacy’s economic sustainability policies aim to promote economic growth, ensure social safety nets, integrate environmental considerations, and foster long-term stability. He advocates for balanced fiscal policies that consider government spending and fiscal responsibility. Quacy supports policies that encourage economic growth, such as tax incentives for businesses, infrastructure investments, and regulatory reforms.\n</p><p>In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Quacy emphasizes the importance of social safety nets to support individuals during economic uncertainty. He recognizes the importance of integrating environmental considerations into economic policies and seeks policies that promote inclusive economic growth. Quacy strongly supports investments in education and workforce development.\n</p><p>Quacy endorses moderate trade policies and recognizes the need for a balanced regulatory framework to ensure financial stability. He supports investments in infrastructure and will pursue policies regarding affordable housing. He believes that affordable housing is central to individual and economic prosperity.\n<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_2-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-2\">[2]</a></sup>\n</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; color: #B2B7F2; font-size: 35px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: right; padding: 10px 1px;\" valign=\"bottom\" width=\"20\">”\n</td></tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"cquotecite\" colspan=\"3\" style=\"border: none; padding-right: 4%\"><cite style=\"font-style: normal;font-size: smaller; float: right;\">—Quacy Smith’s campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-3\"><a href=\"#cite_note-3\">[3]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>", "answer_text": "Smith’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ Position on the Issues Effective and Actionable Quacy’s priorities for his campaign touch upon issues that affect voters in his region. Listed are the key priorities that he champions for voters. VOTING RIGHTS Quacy’s stance on voting rights is deeply rooted in the principles of democracy and fair representation. He is committed to ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to vote and that their vote matters. His policies aim to expand access to voting and advocate for reasonable voter ID laws, both of which are critical to ensuring that all citizens can participate in the democratic process. Quacy is also dedicated to protecting against voter suppression and restoring voting rights for former felons, issues that have been at the forefront of recent debates on voting rights. Furthermore, he encourages participation among underrepresented groups and ensures election security. Quacy holds a strong commitment to upholding the integrity of our electoral process and ensuring that the voices of all people are heard. WOMEN’S RIGHTS Quacy strongly believes in the pursuit of Women’s Rights as a fundamental part of creating a more perfect union and a better future. This belief is rooted in the conviction that we can and should do better in supporting gender equality. Quacy advocates for equal opportunities for women in all spheres, including the workplace, education, and politics, which are key areas that directly impact women’s lives and their ability to contribute to society. Another important aspect of Quacy’s stance is the promotion of work-life balance. This is a critical issue for many women who juggle multiple roles in their personal and professional lives. By advocating for policies that support work-life balance, Quacy aims to create an environment where women can thrive both at work and at home. Quacy is a staunch supporter of reproductive rights, firmly believing that women should have the right to make decisions about their own reproductive health. In addition, Quacy is committed to combating gender-based violence and promoting the representation of women in leadership roles and political forums. These efforts are aimed at empowering women and providing them with the opportunities they need to succeed. REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS Quacy is a strong advocate for women’s reproductive rights, believing in a woman’s right to make decisions about her own reproductive health. He supports legislation that establishes a woman’s right to choose a reasonable framework of regulations to ensure safe and responsible procedures. Quacy also emphasizes the importance of preventing unintended pregnancies through increased access to contraception and comprehensive sex education. He opposes extreme measures on both sides of the reproductive rights debate. He rejects overly restrictive bans and laws, but also opposes efforts to expand rights without any reasonable limitations. He believes that reproductive rights legislation must thoughtfully balance a woman’s fundamental right to privacy and the prevailing public interest. He seeks common ground between pro-choice and pro-life advocates by promoting policies that aim to reduce the overall number of abortions while respecting women’s autonomy. This includes supporting adoption programs and providing increased support for pregnant women. He also supports initiatives aimed at making reproductive healthcare, including contraception and family planning services, affordable and accessible. HEALTHCARE Quacy’s position on healthcare is rooted in the belief that it is an essential component of a functioning democracy and that the government has a great responsibility to provide for the well-being of its citizens. He supports policies aimed at expanding access to healthcare, improving its affordability, and addressing health disparities. Quacy believes in improving and building upon the current system, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), rather than advocating for a complete overhaul. He supports policies that introduce incremental reforms that address specific issues without disrupting the entire system. He advocates for moving toward a system of universal healthcare coverage, where all Americans have access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare. He supports the inclusion of a public option as part of healthcare reform to increase competition, lower costs, and provide additional choices for consumers. He also supports policies that involve collaboration between the public and private sectors, including initiatives that encourage public-private partnerships to improve healthcare delivery, infrastructure, and/or research. He understands that a hybrid model will favor market-based approaches to healthcare reform. This might include promoting competition among private insurers, encouraging innovation, and implementing policies that aim to increase transparency and reduce costs within the healthcare marketplace. However, he will not support Market-Based solutions that are detrimental to citizens. He will emphasize the need to address high prescription drug prices and supports expanding Medicaid. Lastly, Quacy will pass and support legislation that emphasizes the importance of preventive care and public health initiatives to reduce overall healthcare costs and improve population health outcomes. BORDER SECURITY/IMMIGRATION REFORM Quacy firmly supports the securing of the borders immediately to prevent illegal entry. He supports comprehensive immigration reform, including enhanced border security without racially charged rhetoric, and creating realistic pathways to legal status for undocumented immigrants. He emphasizes a humane approach to immigration, supporting measures to improve conditions for asylum-seekers. His immigration reform considers the country’s economic and labor market needs, evaluating visa programs to meet labor demands. He promotes immigrant integration into society, supporting language programs and cultural assimilation initiatives. He calls for bipartisan collaboration for meaningful immigration reform, upholds the rule of law, and advocates for increased support for border states and cities impacted by current immigration policies. SOCIAL SECURITY/ RETIREMENT PROTECTION Quacy is committed to protecting and strengthening Social Security, emphasizing the importance of retirement protection. He advocates for sustainable funding to ensure the program’s long-term solvency and rejects any reductions in benefits. Quacy supports expanding Social Security benefits, particularly for vulnerable populations such as low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. He opposes efforts to privatize Social Security, believing it could expose retirees to market risks. He emphasizes the importance of protecting Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and opposes proposals that involve cutting Social Security benefits. Quacy supports policies promoting retirement security, including initiatives encouraging retirement savings and workplace pension plans. He champions the protection of traditional pension plans, promotion of retirement savings, and expansion of access to retirement savings vehicles. He addresses income inequality, supports policies for long-term care challenges, and advocates for financial regulations and consumer protection measures to safeguard retirees from financial exploitation and fraud. SECOND AMENDMENT POLICIES AND PROTECTIONS Quacy’s stance on Second Amendment protections and gun reform balances the right to bear arms with common-sense measures to enhance public safety. He fully recognizes the Second Amendment as a constitutional right that should not be disturbed. However, he recognizes the importance of public safety and the challenges to policing due to the lack of reasonable gun reform. Accordingly, Quacy does support comprehensive, enforceable background checks for all gun sales, including private sales and online purchases. He advocates for closing loopholes in gun sales at shows and online marketplaces. He supports the development of red flag laws, allowing temporary firearm removal from individuals posing a danger due to mental health issues or other factors. He emphasizes the need to better enforce existing gun laws. He promotes responsible gun ownership through education and training, and supports, in some instances, mandatory firearm safety courses for gun owners. He advocates for increased funding for research on gun violence and urges bipartisan solutions to address gun violence, aiming to unite lawmakers from different political perspectives. CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM Quacy’s approach to criminal justice reform seeks a harmony between maintaining a fair and effective system and addressing issues of over incarceration and systemic bias. He supports sentencing reform, focusing on fair, proportionate laws and reducing mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent offenses. Quacy also advocates for rehabilitation and reentry programs, providing access to education, job training, and mental health services to reduce reoffending. He supports measures to enhance police accountability and transparency, such as body-worn cameras, independent oversight, and improved de-escalation training. He endorses community policing models that build positive relationships between law enforcement and communities. Quacy also believes in bail reform, supporting enhanced risk assessments and reforms to prevent pretrial detention due to inability to pay bail. His reform efforts include juvenile justice reform, emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures for young offenders. He supports drug policy reform, including decriminalization or legalization of certain substances and a public health approach to substance abuse. Quacy advocates for evidence-based, data-driven policies to identify effective strategies for reducing crime and improving rehabilitation outcomes. TAXES Quacy’s tax policies aim to balance the funding needs of the government while promoting economic growth, fairness, and fiscal responsibility. He supports a progressive tax system where higher-income individuals pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes. He advocates for measures that provide tax relief to the middle class, such as tax credits and deductions. He supports a balanced approach to corporate taxation, promoting measures to ensure international competitiveness and stimulate economic growth. He endorses efforts to close tax loopholes and eliminate inefficient or regressive tax provisions. He also supports targeted tax incentives to encourage investment in areas that promote economic growth. He emphasizes the importance of a simple and transparent tax system and recognizes the necessity of generating sufficient revenue to fund government programs and services. He supports reasonable reforms to the estate tax and recognizes the importance of tax policies that can adapt to economic conditions. SMALL BUSINESSES Quacy’s positions on small businesses aim to create a supportive environment for entrepreneurship and economic growth. He supports policies that improve access to capital for small businesses, such as low-interest loans, grants, or partnerships with financial institutions. Quacy advocates for a balanced regulatory environment that protects consumers and workers while avoiding unnecessary burdens on small businesses. He endorses tax policies that provide relief for small businesses, including tax credits and deductions. He recognizes the challenges small businesses face in providing healthcare benefits to employees and supports measures to address healthcare costs. He supports initiatives that help small businesses attract and retain talented employees, involving investments in education and workforce development. Quacy recognizes the importance of digital infrastructure for the success of small businesses and supports policies that expand access to broadband and technology resources. He advocates for policies that make it easier for small businesses to participate in government procurement opportunities. He supports training and support programs for small business owners, including initiatives that provide mentorship and guidance on business management. Quacy encourages small businesses to adopt environmentally and socially responsible practices and supports policies that encourage collaboration between small and large businesses. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES & SUSTAINABILITY Quacy’s environmental sustainability policies involve an approach that values environmental protection, economic considerations, and practical solutions. He supports policies that balance environmental protection with economic growth, endorses market-based approaches to environmental challenges, and advocates for investment in green technologies. He emphasizes international collaboration to address global environmental challenges and advocates for well-crafted regulations to address environmental concerns. He supports efforts to conserve and preserve natural habitats and biodiversity, and recognizes the importance of resilience and adaptation to the impacts of climate change. He values public-private partnerships to address environmental challenges and stresses the importance of engaging local communities in environmental initiatives. He supports a gradual and realistic transition to cleaner energy sources, recognizing the role of traditional energy sources in the short term while investing in renewable and low-carbon energy alternatives. ECONOMY & ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY Quacy’s economic sustainability policies aim to promote economic growth, ensure social safety nets, integrate environmental considerations, and foster long-term stability. He advocates for balanced fiscal policies that consider government spending and fiscal responsibility. Quacy supports policies that encourage economic growth, such as tax incentives for businesses, infrastructure investments, and regulatory reforms. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Quacy emphasizes the importance of social safety nets to support individuals during economic uncertainty. He recognizes the importance of integrating environmental considerations into economic policies and seeks policies that promote inclusive economic growth. Quacy strongly supports investments in education and workforce development. Quacy endorses moderate trade policies and recognizes the need for a balanced regulatory framework to ensure financial stability. He supports investments in infrastructure and will pursue policies regarding affordable housing. He believes that affordable housing is central to individual and economic prosperity. [2] ” —Quacy Smith’s campaign website (2024) [3]"}]